This Is The End: review and trailer

STARRING James Franco, Seth Rogen, Jonah Hill and several other young Hollywood stars, all playing “themselves”, This Is The End is a raucous, ramshackle and off-the-wall comedy that has almost enough crazy energy to carry it over the finish line - but not quite.

James Franco, Seth Rogen and Jonah Hill play themseleves in the apocalyptic comedy

The first half is the best as the dynamics of the stars’ friendships are explored against the backdrop of impending doom.

Canadian actor Jay Baruchel is visiting best pal Seth Rogen in Los Angeles and goes into a strop during a party at Franco’s house, feeling ignored by the wasted crowd of narcissistic movie stars.

Then the apocalypse happens, literally, and beams of blue light suck deserving souls up into heaven amid Biblical-like devastation, while undeserving schmucks are left to fend for themselves - all the actors.

Some amusing cameos keep things lively, including a swivel-eyed, axe-wielding Emma Watson, but the story becomes as scattershot and repetitive as the scatalogical gags. Best enjoyed under the influence.